IPL 2025

IPL 2025 :KKR Pick Chetan Sakariya as a Replacement for Umran Malik.

Mithun Rudra

March 21, 2025

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The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have made a strategic move ahead of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 by picking left-arm pacer Chetan Sakariya as a replacement for Umran Malik. With Umran Malik ruled out of the season due to injury, KKR needed a reliable fast bowler to strengthen their squad. Chetan Sakariya, known for his accuracy and ability to swing the ball, is expected to be a valuable addition to the team. This article delves into the impact of this replacement, Sakariya’s career, and how he fits into KKR’s plans for IPL 2025.

Why KKR Pick Chetan Sakariya as a Replacement for Umran Malik

The Injury Blow to Umran Malik

Umran Malik, one of the fastest bowlers in Indian cricket, has been a key asset in the IPL with his express pace and wicket-taking ability. Unfortunately, his untimely injury has forced him out of IPL 2025, creating a void in KKR’s bowling lineup. The team management had to act quickly to find a suitable replacement who could bring consistency and experience to the squad.

Chetan Sakariya’s Strengths and Bowling Style

Chetan Sakariya is a talented left-arm seamer who has proven his mettle in previous IPL seasons. His ability to swing the ball early, bowl economical spells in the powerplay, and deliver crucial wickets in the death overs makes him a strong candidate to fill Umran Malik’s shoes. Some of his key strengths include:

• Left-arm angle: Provides variety to KKR’s predominantly right-arm pace attack.
• Swing and seam movement: Effective in new-ball conditions.
• Death-over expertise: Can bowl yorkers and slower deliveries effectively.
• IPL experience: Has already played for Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals.

Chetan Sakariya’s IPL Journey So Far

Rajasthan Royals and Delhi Capitals Stint

Chetan Sakariya made his IPL debut in 2021 for Rajasthan Royals, where he showcased his potential with impressive performances. He picked up crucial wickets and became a dependable bowler in the RR setup. Later, he moved to Delhi Capitals, where he continued to evolve as a bowler under the mentorship of experienced cricketers.

Domestic Performance and Growth

Sakariya has been a standout performer in domestic cricket, representing Saurashtra in the Ranji Trophy and other domestic tournaments. His ability to deliver under pressure has made him one of the rising stars in Indian cricket. His consistent performances earned him a place in the Indian national team, where he made his debut in limited-overs cricket.

How Chetan Sakariya Fits into KKR’s IPL 2025 Plans

Strengthening KKR’s Bowling Attack

KKR has always been known for its strong bowling attack, featuring quality pacers and spinners. The addition of Chetan Sakariya provides the team with:

• A left-arm pace option: This adds balance to the bowling unit, complementing the right-arm pacers like Lockie Ferguson and Andre Russell.
• A reliable powerplay bowler: Sakariya’s swing bowling can be effective in the early overs, restricting the opposition’s run flow.
• A dependable death-over specialist: With the ability to execute slower balls and yorkers, he can be crucial in the final overs.

Tactical Impact on KKR’s Playing XI

KKR’s think tank will have to strategize how to integrate Chetan Sakariya into the playing XI. Possible scenarios include:

• Replacing a domestic pacer: Sakariya could replace an Indian pacer in the squad to maintain team balance.
• Supporting international bowlers: He could complement KKR’s overseas fast bowlers, ensuring a versatile pace attack.
• Playing in rotation: Depending on pitch conditions, he might be rotated with other bowlers to maximize his effectiveness.

Challenges and Expectations for Chetan Sakariya

Adapting to KKR’s Team Environment

Joining a new franchise mid-season can be challenging, but Sakariya’s prior IPL experience should help him adapt quickly to KKR’s strategies and team culture. Working under coach Chandrakant Pandit and captain Shreyas Iyer will be crucial for his growth.

Performing Under Pressure

Replacing a player like Umran Malik comes with its own set of pressures. Sakariya will be expected to:

• Deliver consistent performances in crucial matches.
• Maintain composure in high-pressure situations.
• Contribute with wickets at key moments.

Competing for a Spot

KKR has a deep squad with multiple pace options. Sakariya will need to compete with other bowlers like Shivam Mavi and Umesh Yadav for a place in the playing XI. Strong performances in the initial matches will be key to securing a regular spot.

Fans’ Reactions and Expectations

Social Media Buzz

KKR fans have shown mixed reactions to the replacement. While some are excited about Sakariya’s inclusion, others are concerned about losing the pace advantage that Umran Malik offered. However, many believe that Sakariya’s skills will add stability to the team.

Former Cricketers’ Opinions

Several former cricketers and analysts have backed KKR’s decision, citing Sakariya’s ability to swing the ball and perform under pressure. Experts believe that he can be a game-changer in crucial matches.

The decision to pick Chetan Sakariya as a replacement for Umran Malik in IPL 2025 is a well-thought-out move by KKR. While Umran Malik’s express pace will be missed, Sakariya brings control, swing, and versatility to the team’s bowling attack. His past IPL experience and domestic performances make him a strong candidate to contribute effectively to KKR’s campaign. If he can capitalize on this opportunity and perform consistently, he could play a key role in KKR’s success this season.

With IPL 2025 set to be an exciting season, all eyes will be on Chetan Sakariya to see how he steps up in this new challenge. Will he be able to fill the void left by Umran Malik? Only time will tell, but KKR fans have high hopes for their new left-arm pacer!